NEW ORLEANS – Troy took down Illinois State 99-96 in a thrilling WNIT Fab 4 victory.

The Trojans (24-13) were led by a Briana Peguero, who posted a career-high 28 points, including six made three-pointers. Troy’s offense was hot from beyond the arc, knocking down 13 three-pointers to outgun the Redbirds (24-13), while also winning the turnover battle, 15-7.

Joining Peguero in double figures were Fortuna Ngnawo (16), Emani Jenkins (15) Zay Dyer (13), Brianna Jackson (11), and Ashley Baez (10).

Illinois State grabbed the lead just before halftime, nailing a three-pointer with three seconds left to give the Redbirds a 45-42 advantage. The Redbirds continued to build momentum in the third quarter, outscoring Troy 26-22 to take a 70-60 lead.

Trailing by nine points early in the final frame, Troy went on a 13-2 run, capped by a three from Peguero and a jumper from Dyer to take an 82-80 lead with just over four minutes remaining. The teams continued to exchange leads in the final minutes, with Illinois State holding an 88-87 advantage with 2:07.

Baez came up clutch, scoring a fast-break layup to put Troy ahead 89-88. Peguero then buried a three off a steal from Dyer, and Dyer added two free throws to extend the lead to 94-88 with 37 seconds remaining.

Illinois State kept fighting and drained a three-pointer to cut the deficit to 97-96 with 15 seconds left, but Troy’s defense sealed the deal with a Wagner steal and Baez heading to the free throw line to secure the 99-96 win.

With the victory, Troy advances to the WNIT championship game, marking their first-ever appearance in a postseason title contest. The Trojans improve to 7-3 all-time in the WNIT and 3-0 on the road.

The Trojans will face Buffalo in the championship game at 4 p.m. on April 5 at Alumni Arena.